A group of European transmission systems operators says that the continent’s generating capacity may not be adequate to meet demand this winter.

The European Network of Transmission System Operators for Electricity (ENTSO-E) has expressed concerns about the reduced generating margins in Europe, caused primarily by Germany’s decision to shut down eight nuclear power plants.

It says that Europe will be able to maintain generation adequacy in average winter weather conditions, but that the security of supply in key areas of Europe cannot be ensured during extreme weather conditions.

“Extended cold spells and lower-than-average temperatures could require significant countermeasures,” said ENTSO-E in a statement. It said that its members would need to intensify their levels of cooperation to coordinate “preventative and curative measures such as redispatching of power plants, control of renewable generation whenever possible and regional load shedding”.

ENTSO-E is to publish a more detailed winter outlook in early December.


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